H.E. Silvano Pedrollo had the privilege of being received by the Most Reverend His Excellency Monsignor Eloy Domínguez Martínez, Auxiliary Bishop of Havana. The meeting took place at the Archdiocese of Havana, where Bishop Domínguez welcomed Amb. Pedrollo in the Hall of Portraits. During the meeting, Bishop Domínguez addressed the challenges facing the local church and humanitarian associations in Cuba amidst the economic, social, and food crisis affecting the Caribbean island. He highlighted the role of the Cuban church in civil society and discussed future challenges, particularly the significant youth emigration and the church’s efforts to support Cuban families amidst adversity.

Bishop Domínguez emphasized the difficult situation in Cuba, which was greatly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, including food shortages and significant youth emigration. He invited Amb. Pedrollo and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta to provide assistance, in the form of donations of food, medicine, and agricultural equipment, among others.

Amb. Pedrollo expressed his commitment and that of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta to help, particularly with the elderly and the most vulnerable. In this regard, he discussed with Bishop Domínguez the top near-term priorities. Additionally, it was acknowledged that the support and guidance of the Archbishop of Havana, His Most Reverend Excellency Juan de la Caridad García Rodríguez, is invaluable for the success of any project.

The meeting concluded with a prayer to the Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre (Virgin of Charity of El Cobre), Patroness of Cuba, and a blessing from Bishop Domínguez for all participants.